Archived: 24 October 2026
Abstract
In 1311, conflict at Bunratty in Thomond brought rival Uí Bhriain branches, Richard de Clare, William Liath de Burgh and forces from Connacht and Meath into shifting alliances. Although de Clare’s side suffered heavier losses, it captured de Burgh and northern nobles, briefly altering regional power. Thomond endured further killings, including King Donnchad Ó Briain’s murder, contested succession, hostage agreements and later fighting. Raids also struck the Dublin marches, exposing weak governmental control. Church appointments in Dublin and Armagh revealed competing royal, papal and local interests. Deaths, raids and scarcity heightened insecurity, foreshadowing vulnerabilities later exploited during the Bruce invasion.
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Archived: 24 October 2026
Abstract
1287 in Ireland was marked by succession, local violence and deaths without island-wide upheaval. Thomas de Clare, lord of Thomond, died on 29 August, leaving his six-year-old heir Gilbert and placing lands under wardship. His death altered but did not end contested power around the Shannon; Toirrdelbach Ó Briain later raided Ormond and Limerick. In Connacht, Diarmait Midech Mac Diarmata and Gilla na nÉc Ó Mannacháin died alongside lesser rulers and clerics. Archdeacon Florint Ó Gibealláin was praised for learning. Máel Sechlainn Mag Oirechtaig was killed in revenge for broken loyalty. Misdated de Burgh campaigns belong to 1291, not 1287.
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Archived: 26 September 2026
Abstract
In 1221, Ireland remained divided among Gaelic rulers, Anglo-Norman lords, royal officers and church institutions. Geoffrey de Marisco was removed as justiciar amid concerns over revenues, and Archbishop Henry of London returned to office, strengthening crown oversight from Dublin. Marisco nevertheless led a destructive expedition into Desmond, ruining crops and building a castle at Mag Rátha. Papal legate James visited, addressing ecclesiastical affairs and prompting resentment over clerical payments. In Connacht, Diarmait Ua Conchobair’s seaborne bid for kingship ended in his death, exposing succession tensions. The death of scholar Diarmait Ua Cú Lecháin attests to religious learning and manuscript production.
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